A CARE worker has been jailed for raping and imprisoning a teenager he tracked down through an official database.

A CARE worker has been jailed for raping and imprisoning a teenager he tracked down through an official database.

Greenwich council worker Simeon Kellman, 42, of The Oaks, Woolwich, got eight years in jail after pleading guilty to rape and false imprisonment at Woolwich Crown Court on April 10.

Last December, the council support worker raped a vulnerable 18-year-old in her Woolwich flat after accessing council records on her more than 30 times.

Greenwich council "totally refute" accusations that the files on vulnerable people across the borough lack security.

However, after laying in wait for his victim near her home, Kellman approached the teen from behind at 10pm, forcing her into her flat.

He raped her then locked her in a cupboard and told her not to report the incident.

Police from Greenwich's sexual offences unit said the rapist burnt his jacket to avoid detection.

But the victim recognised Kellman's voice as he had previously delivered a council Christmas hamper to her flat.

He was arrested on January 4 and was identified by his DNA.

The rapist was hired by Greenwich council in 1996, tasked with supporting young people leaving the care system, and was sacked when he admitted his guilt.

Chris Roberts, leader of the council, said: "It was the vicious actions of an individual and not a failing in the system which led to this crime.

"Under the current CRB system this person was not deemed to be unsuitable by the police to take on his role."

Family Matters, a sexual abuse and rape support charity, say attacks by care workers often go unreported.

Clinical manager Mary Trevillion said: "People often think these attacks are a one off. This man has taken time to get to this girl. It is hardly the sign of a one-off attack and you can bet he abused others. She is going to be frightened for the rest of her life now, looking over her shoulder when she comes home."

Greenwich police admitted they have reason to believe that Kellman could have raped before, and want other possible victims to come forward.

To talk to a Family Matters counsellor call 01474 537 392. Or if you have any information on Kellman that might be of use to Greenwich police call 020 8284 9818.